SPOILER ALERT: This article discusses SPOILERS for ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’, so if you haven’t seen it yet, you may wish to turn back.
It has been rumored for weeks now that none other than Johnny Depp had been cast in ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’ in the privotal role of Gellert Grindelwald, the darkest of dark wizards who started out as a friend (and potentially more) to Albus Dumbledore before surrendering to his evil urges. Many fans were outraged, as Depp has been embroiled in some pretty heavy personal issues with his now-ex-wife Amber Heard.
But like it or not, sure enough, Depp made his debut as Grindelwald in ‘Fantastic Beasts’, setting himself up for a larger role in upcoming sequels.
Producer David Heyman went on the record to discuss the decision to cast Depp and his cameo in the film:
“It was the end of last year. We filmed it early this year because of availability. What we wanted was an iconic actor to play Grindelwald, because Grindelwald is an iconic character who has a significant place in this story. His ability to persuade the hearts and minds, to persuade people to follow him is essential to this story.”
“He is dangerous in that way. We were looking for someone who was seductive and could be charming and could be original, who was iconic, who was a great actor; and that’s what Johnny Depp is. He can be irresistible. He’s powerful. He’s created some iconic characters, and not made the obvious choices when doing so. The unpredictability of the choices he makes is part of what makes him so extraordinary and that was very exciting for us. He was the perfect choice for Grindelwald.”
Depp knows a thing or two about headlining a major franchise, having played Captain Jack Sparrow in five ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ movies, including ‘Dead Men Tell No Tales’ which is due out next year. He has also won a Golden Globe and several Peoples Choice Awards. He was also nominated for three Academy Awards.
Did you see ‘Fantastic Beasts’? If so, how did you feel about Depp as Grindelwald? Are you excited to see him in upcoming movies in the franchise?
Source: Collider
